The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to global best practices in urban planning and physical development as part of efforts to promote sustainable growth and improve residents’ quality of life.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Oluyinka Olumide, disclosed this during a ministerial press briefing held to mark the seventh year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.
Strategic Urban Planning Reforms
Olumide said the ministry has strengthened strategic planning collaborations and knowledge-sharing initiatives designed to improve long-term urban development across Lagos State.
According to him, the reforms are expected to enhance infrastructure coordination, improve urban mobility, reduce environmental degradation, and support broader socio-economic development.
He noted that the government is aligning all physical development activities with approved planning standards and international urban management practices.
Improved Dispute Resolution and Enforcement
To improve compliance and public trust, the ministry intensified mediation and conflict resolution mechanisms for development-related disputes.
Olumide disclosed that the ministry received 987 petitions during the review period. Out of these:
- 399 cases were resolved through mediation
- 17 enforcement actions were carried out
- 52 properties were sealed
- 519 cases remain under investigation
He stated that the 47.76 per cent resolution rate has helped reduce litigation, improve enforcement efficiency, and strengthen public confidence in the system.
Technology-Driven Planning and Infrastructure Support
The commissioner said the ministry is increasingly adopting data-driven planning systems and digital tools to improve decision-making, land-use management, and spatial coordination.
He added that the government has also facilitated Right of Way approvals for key infrastructure projects, including road expansion and urban regeneration programmes.
Olumide stressed that enforcement activities have helped reduce unregulated estate development and promote safer and more organised communities across the state.
Urban Renewal and Corridor Development
As part of ongoing urban renewal efforts, the Lagos State Informal Space Management Authority developed action plans for key corridors and informal spaces, including:
- AIT Powerline High Tension Corridor
- New Ojota–Opebi Link Bridge area
- Agric–Isawo corridor
- Itamaga–Elepe–Maya corridor
- Ogolonto–Ipakodo corridor
The interventions included mapping, stakeholder engagement, enforcement notices, and action area planning to prevent encroachment and restore order.
Appeals Committee Reconstituted
Olumide also announced the reconstitution of the 14-member Lagos State Physical Planning and Building Control Appeals Committee.
The committee will handle disputes, oversee regulatory issues, and investigate professional misconduct within the planning and building control system.
Regional Planning and Future Projects
He further disclosed that Lagos State has been assigned to lead the development of a master plan for the South-West region, alongside plans for an integrated rail transit system across the region.
The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a smart, sustainable, and well-organised city through continued reforms and inter-agency collaboration.
According to him, Lagos remains focused on balancing infrastructure development with environmental sustainability and economic growth to improve residents’ quality of life.
